Do Dental Crowns Last Forever?

When your dentist recommends a dental crown, it is important to follow their care instructions to keep your crown in good shape. The better care you give your crown, the longer it will last.

The average crown needs to be replaced after 15 years. It is not uncommon, however, for a crown to last longer than that. With outstanding care, a crown can last 25-30 years.

How to Extend the Life of Your Crown

• Establish excellent oral hygiene routines, including brushing your teeth twice a day, and flossing once daily. Pay special attention to the area around the crown when brushing and flossing.

• Visit your dentist routinely (at least every six months) for a cleaning and checkup. This is also when your dentist will examine the crown for signs of wear or decay.

• Be careful to not grind or clench your teeth. This can create chips or cracks in your crown. If you grind your teeth while sleeping, use a custom-made nightguard to protect your crown and your natural teeth.

• Avoid biting your fingernails and chewing on ice or hard candy. These habits can damage your crowns and your natural teeth.

When to Replace a Crown

A crown with a chip or crack should be replaced. When a damaged crown is not replaced, it is more likely for decay to form underneath the crown. Eventually, if the crown is still not replaced, the tooth may require a root canal. One of the most common reasons for an early crown failure is a poorly made crown that was not fitted to your bite, causing an imbalanced bite and excessive wear on the crown.

If you have more questions about dental crowns, call or stop by Ridge View Dental. We look forward to serving you!